Gear Review: Costa Clear Rx Lenses

WHAT IS IT?

Costa Clear Rx Lenses

WHAT SETS IT APART?

You likely wear a pair of Costa’s premium sunglasses with 580 lens technology, but did you know there is a clear lens for prescription glasses with the same unmatched standards for vision clarity? Costa developed its own standard for prescription lenses with anglers and active sportsmen in mind. 

Costa Clear features a collection of three single-vision (Essential, Waypoint, Waypoint Plus) and four progressive-lens (Base, Essential, C-Scape, C-Scape Plus) options for a tiered approach to suit the unique needs of everyone – from those who desire an accessible and reliable Costa optical lens, to Elite anglers and craftsmen that demand extra performance and clarity. The collection is available through authorized Rx dealers, optical stores and online. 

HOW DO I USE IT?

Premium options in both the single vision and progressive lens categories utilize Costa Waypoint digital surfacing technology, which enhances the field of view by virtually eliminating the peripheral blur found in high wrap glasses. Waypoint digital surfacing ensures superior visual clarity no matter which direction you look. Premium lenses in the progressive category feature Costa C-SCAPE technology. The wider top layer provides an expansive visual zone across the horizon to spot fish and shoreline features. The intermediate layer of the lens is ideal for reading electronics and other mid-distance zones. The near-vision bottom layer makes up-close tasks like rigging baits easier. 

MORE INFORMATION:

Costadelmar.com

ANGLER’S INSIGHT:

You can get Costa Clear lenses in all of the brand’s optical frames, and there are also eight new styles from which to choose. I wear the Ocean Ridge 410, inspired by the PRO series of sunglasses and designed with input from professional anglers. Frames are built from a durable resin that is ideal for active sports, and a ventilated nose pad adds comfort, with eyewear drains to help manage sweat.   

I felt that familiar feeling the first time I put on the Ocean Ridge 410s, which is the same snug fit I get with Fantail PRO sunglasses. Hydrolite rubber grips and keeper-ready temples keep the frames firmly in place. I add Costa’s C-Line Retainer lanyard when in the bass boat. I have worn them stream fishing, timber duck hunting while wading and even trail running. Now, I have a pair of prescription glasses that don’t feel heavy, stay put, and that I can wear all the time, on the water and behind the computer. 

I wear Costa Essential progressive lenses and after switching back and forth numerous times with my old lenses found the transition noticeably smoother from distance, to intermediate and near vision. Clarity is also much sharper overall during nighttime and low light, a must for me as I frequently work in those conditions at our Bassmaster Elite Series events. The difference is most notable in the distance level of the progressive lenses, as the coverage area seems much wider, which is fantastic when driving or while fishing.